Galvanisation is a widely adopted process essential for modern infrastructure, protecting materials vital for industry and daily life. In fact, a significant proportion of this versatile metal’s production is dedicated to preventing deterioration, given that approximately 60% of all zinc consumed globally goes towards protecting steel and iron from corrosion.
Key Takeaways
- Galvanised iron is zinc-coated steel widely used in Malaysian construction for its corrosion-resistant properties.
- It is durable, cost-efficient, and commonly applied in roofing, infrastructure, and industrial components.
- Unitrade supplies certified galvanised iron materials with nationwide delivery and 40+ years of industry expertise.
What is Galvanised Iron (GI)
Galvanised iron (GI) and steel refer to iron or steel materials that have been coated with a protective layer of zinc, fundamentally serving to safeguard the base metal from rusting, thereby extending the service life of products used across numerous sectors, including construction, automotive, and household manufacturing.
Looking for galvanised materials? Explore our range of galvanised iron (GI) pipes.
Uses of Galvanised Iron in Malaysia
Galvanised iron is used extensively across Malaysian construction, infrastructure, and manufacturing due to its corrosion resistance and durability. It is commonly found in structural components, roofing systems, public utilities, and even household products — especially where long service life and minimal maintenance are critical.
Structural Components
Galvanised iron is widely used in building structures such as beams, handrails, balconies, and staircases. Its corrosion resistance makes it ideal for load-bearing elements exposed to outdoor conditions.
Roofing and Rainwater Systems
In roofing and drainage applications, GI is commonly used for flashing, gutters, downpipes, and valley trays. It performs well in Malaysia’s humid, high-rainfall climate, where rust protection is essential.
Household Appliances and Fixtures
Many household products are manufactured using galvanised steel, including washing machine drums, refrigerator panels, metal buckets, and storage cabinets. It offers durability and a clean finish for daily use.
Infrastructure and Utilities
Galvanised materials are essential in infrastructure such as MRT traction systems, bridges, fencing, and power transmission towers. These components demand strength, safety, and long-term reliability in harsh environments.
Solar Panel Support Structures
Solar PV mounting systems often use galvanised steel for their frames and supports. It provides stability, weather resistance, and a long operational lifespan with minimal maintenance.
Advantages of Galvanised Iron
Galvanised iron offers a strong combination of durability, cost-efficiency, and ease of maintenance — making it a practical material for both high-volume construction and long-term infrastructure. Its ability to resist corrosion and maintain structural integrity over time has made it a go-to choice across industries.
Exceptional Durability
Galvanised coatings can provide 20 to 50 years of protection depending on the environment and coating thickness, significantly extending the service life of the base material.
Cost-Effective Protection
Compared to other corrosion-resistant treatments, galvanisation is affordable and offers excellent value over the long term due to reduced repair and maintenance needs.
Full Coverage, Even in Complex Shapes
Hot-dip galvanising coats the entire surface — including edges, joints, and recesses — ensuring thorough protection that paint or spray coatings may not achieve.
Low Maintenance Requirements
Once installed, galvanised components require minimal upkeep. They are ideal for hard-to-access areas or large-scale structures where routine maintenance is costly or impractical.
What Affects the Durability of Galvanised Iron?
While galvanised iron is highly durable, certain factors can accelerate deterioration:
Environmental and Chemical Corrosion
Exposure to strong acids, alkalis, and industrial pollutants like sulfur dioxide can break down the protective zinc layer. This is particularly common in areas with heavy air pollution or industrial runoff.
Acidic rainwater from cedar, redwood, or moss-covered roofs can also compromise the zinc coating over time.
Galvanic Corrosion
When galvanised materials come into contact with dissimilar metals such as copper or bare steel — especially in the presence of moisture — electrochemical reactions can cause accelerated corrosion at the contact points.
Physical Wear and Thermal Fatigue
The zinc coating is relatively soft and can wear down through abrasion, especially in areas with water flow, like gutters. Thick coatings may also become brittle if cooled too slowly, increasing the risk of cracking. Poor design that does not accommodate thermal expansion can cause stress-related damage over time.
How to Choose the Right Galvanised Iron for Your Project
When selecting galvanised materials, consider:
- Environment of use: Choose heavier coatings for coastal or industrial locations.
- Thickness of the zinc layer: Thicker coatings offer longer life but may be more expensive.
- Mechanical design: Ensure joints and fasteners are compatible to avoid galvanic reactions.
- Certified suppliers: Work with vendors who comply with ISO and SIRIM standards for material quality.
Work with Malaysia’s Leading Galvanised Iron Supplier
Corrosion protection starts with the right materials — and reliable sourcing is just as critical. From roofing sheets to large-scale infrastructure, GI products must meet both durability and compliance standards.
With over 40 years in the industry, Unitrade is Malaysia’s one-stop supplier for galvanised iron, steel, and other essential construction materials. Our products are backed by ISO certifications, nationwide logistics, and a portfolio of landmark projects including KLCC and KLIA.
Contact us today for expert recommendations and competitive project-based pricing.